Last updated on December 11th, 2018
If recent news reports and murmurs in the industry are anything to go by, times are not looking good in the corporate world, especially the IT sector. The start-up space hasn’t been spared either. Mass layoffs are announced more and more often. Therefore, these layoffs are hitting professionals real bad. Events like these create an atmosphere of pessimism and even panic which spreads faster than you’d like to believe. Before you know it, there are rumours in your company and sometimes those rumours turn out to be true.
Maybe there would be times where entire departments might be dissolved. But more often than not, managers have to choose people to let go.
In these scenarios, we have some advice that might save you from the proverbial axe.
Stay on Top of Your Work
While it may seem obvious to say this but being consistent is always appreciated. Small errors or unread emails can be forgiven during better times. But when jobs are at stake, the impact of such mistakes multiply and manifold. So make sure you never give anyone the chance to question your work whether downsizing or not.
Make Yourself Indispensable
It is often said that no one is irreplaceable in the corporate world. But that’s easier said than done. Not only does hiring and training imply additional costs but it takes up crucial time as well. So just keep learning and make yourself the go-to person for when tasks need to be accomplished. That being said chances are that your manager will fight extra hard when it comes to keeping you on board. Of course the more you achieve, the precious you are but don’t take up anything and everything. So, you need to make sure that you do justice to what you’re given.
Be Ready to Adapt
When structural changes occur, it can be possible that your role and responsibilities also change. You might be asked to take on additional work to cover for reduced manpower or you might be assigned something new based on your strengths. At a time like this if you’re reluctant to change; your name is bound to be on the recommendation list for the PINK SLIP in the next round. Be accommodating and positive, Hence, statements like ‘it’s not my job’ isn’t acceptable during these times.
Network and Be Noticed
You give your best at your job day in day out; you stay away from trouble, interact with someone if you absolutely have to and basically lie under the radar for the most part. Unfortunately, all this stuff doesn’t really play in your favour. If ‘they didn’t do much wrong’ is the only saving factor, it might buy you a little more time than the others, but it does not help with ensuring longevity.
Conclusion
As layoffs are hitting professionals, it’s important to network and be noticed, have fruitful, healthy interactions and not just within your department. As a result more people will vouch for you. And this will solidify your position in unfavourable times. These are just a few suggestions, that might help you ride out the next turbulent patch. But there’s no guarantee that it will be enough always. Sometimes it is inevitable no matter what you try, it is thus in your best interest to be prepared. When it does happen, keep your dignity, figure out the next step and strive to achieve what you set out to do in your career.
